Sparks Fly as Israeli Minister Floats Nuclear Option in Gaza

A shocking turn of events, Israeli Minister of Heritage, Amichai Eliyahu, has stirred controversy by suggesting that dropping a nuclear bomb on the Gaza Strip is "one of the possible options" in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The remarks, made during a radio interview, have ignited a firestorm of criticism and condemnation from both within and outside Israel.

Netanyahu's Swift Rebuke

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly condemned Eliyahu's comments, stating that they are "not based in reality." Netanyahu emphasized that Israel is committed to operating within the highest standards of international law to minimize harm to civilians. "We will continue to do so until our victory," he declared on X.

Opposition Leader Calls for Action

Yair Lapid, Israel's opposition leader and former Prime Minister, joined the chorus of criticism, labeling Eliyahu as an "irresponsible minister" and calling for his dismissal. The Times of Israel reported that Eliyahu not only objected to humanitarian aid for Gaza but also referred to Gaza residents as "Nazis." He claimed that everyone in the region is somehow connected to Hamas, further escalating tensions.

Far-Right Minister's Controversial Stance

Eliyahu, a member of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, advocated for the reoccupation of the Gaza Strip and the restoration of settlements. When questioned about the fate of Palestinians in the event of Gaza coming under Israeli control, Eliyahu suggested that they could move to "Ireland or deserts" and find a solution themselves.

Clarification or Damage Control?

In an attempt to control the fallout, Eliyahu issued a clarification, asserting that his comment was "metaphorical." He tweeted that a forceful response to terror is necessary, emphasizing that democracies must show that terrorism is not worthwhile. Despite this clarification, Netanyahu has suspended the minister indefinitely from cabinet meetings.

International Outcry and Family Reactions

The controversial statement has not only drawn criticism domestically but has also sparked an international outcry. Israeli families, particularly those who had loved ones taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, expressed strong disapproval. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum emphasized that the use of weapons of mass destruction goes against international law and fundamental principles of morality.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Eliyahu's explosive claim comes amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, fueled by relentless Israeli airstrikes in response to Hamas's October 7 attack. World leaders have urged Netanyahu for a ceasefire, but he remains steadfast, stating that it would mean surrendering to Hamas.

The situation is dire, with casualties on both sides. Over 1,400 Israelis have lost their lives in the conflict, and more than 200 were taken hostage by Hamas. Meanwhile, Hamas claims that over 9,400 Palestinians have been killed in the ongoing war. The region remains on edge as leaders grapple with finding a resolution to the long-standing conflict.